If you want to find a peaceful getaway away from the crowds and are a sucker for stunning views, then Piskopiano is for you. The traditional Greek village sits above the blue waters and twinkling tavernas of Hersonissos Bay on Crete’s northern coast.
Located in the rural foothills of the Harakas Mountains, the village is full of quaint Greek charm, breathtaking views and that much needed peace and quiet. With surroundings like this, you can happily stay in the hills looking down on the coast for your entire holiday.
Just five minutes’ drive towards the coast however, and you’ve got long beaches, lively bars and shops to enjoy. Swim in the famously blue waters of the Mediterranean, gaze at the incredible mountain views, or visit buzzing Malia, just a stone’s throw from Piskopiano, to experience the famed nightlife of this Greek island.
Piskopiano may be small, but it has some lovely tavernas and bars to keep you entertained. And if that and the amazing views aren’t enough, you can easily head to the nearby bright lights of Crete’s large resorts.
The village’s pride and joy, the Museum of Rural Life, is well worth a visit to discover the story of this beautiful island and its people. Authentic artefacts and examples of traditional Cretan culture will be brought to your attention on a guided tour of this hidden gem of a museum.
Just below Piskopiano, the resort of Hersonissos is conveniently located for getting your fix of beaches and bars. You’ll also find the fun Star Beach Water Park, the fascinating Lychnostatis Open Air Museum and some great boat trips leaving from the pretty harbour. Head out to sea and view the island’s scenery from a whole different perspective.
To the east of Piskopiano, the lively town of Malia provides a modern contrast to the traditional village feel. Fun-loving holidaymakers can get stuck in to some jet skiing by day and some serious partying in the bars and superclubs of Malia’s main strip by night. Or why not explore Heraklion to the west? Crete’s capital city is packed with historic landmarks, such as the ancient Palace of Knossos, museums and shops or island-hopping boat trips.
The three beaches at Hersonissos are both the closest to Piskopiano and some of the most beautiful in the area. The beaches are deservedly popular, with golden sands, rows of sunloungers and some great water sports on offer. You’ll find shops, lifeguards, beach cafés and bars on hand. While the beaches do get busy during the summer months, they are well organised and clean.
If you prefer a quieter beach, try the beaches to the east of town rather than the ones centred around the port, or head west to Anissaras with its intriguing rockpools to keep the children entertained. You’ll also find enormous warm, flat rocks dotted along the coast that are loved by locals as natural sunbathing and swimming platforms.
Stalis and Malia are slightly further afield but still within easy reach – and are home to fantastic sandy beaches.